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Mount Hiei

Mount Hiei rises to the north-east of Kyoto, on the border between Kyoto and Shiga prefectures, and its main attraction is the Enryaku-ji temple complex, spread across the mountain in three zones — Tōdō, Saitō and Yokawa — connected by trails. The complex, founded in the 8th century, was an influential centre of Tendai Buddhism, and monks who went on to found other Japanese schools came from it. Besides the temple, visitors will find forests and viewpoints towards Kyoto, Ohara and Lake Biwa, as well as the Garden Museum Hiei, devoted to French Impressionism, and the chance to see illuminations and the night view of the nearby towns. Access combines a toll road, buses and funiculars from both sides of the mountain.

Things to do at Mount Hiei: 3 missions

• Watch the light showsWatch the light shows that draw some visitors at night.
• Walk the pedestrian pathsWalk the pedestrian paths that connect the three concentrated areas.
• Take in the night view of the surrounding villagesAdmire the night view of the surrounding villages, which draws some visitors in the evening.

Near Mount Hiei